by Suzan Battah
“I was walking better in the hospital, damn it!”
Randy and Boric exchanged worried glances. Julia sniffed, taking another step. Her foot twisted beneath her and she crumbled. Randy scooped her beneath the armpits, lifting her back up.
“I think we’ve had enough for today, we’ll try again tomorrow. Don’t get on this thing without someone here with you.”
She nodded, wiping at her eyes. When she had settled onto the couch, she glared at the walking bob, preparing herself mentally to get back on the contraption. If she was having difficulty with her recovery, she didn’t want the Augustine contract compromised.
The moment Chris came to visit her at home back from his trip, she was ready to discuss breaking their contract. Finally, she felt stronger and understood it was time to broach the subject. But when she told him, it turned into something more than she expected.
The silence in the apartment was annoying to say the least. Chris was standing at the window, leaning against the walking bob, a deep glower of anger in his eyes. He gripped the rail as he flexed his arms.
“I’ve been in an accident, Chris. I can’t oversee the Augustine. It’s taking longer than expected. It’s better you seek out another contractor.”
But the conversation was cut short when Hilda, holding her grandson Antonio, came bustling in. She was followed by her sister-in-law, Amy. Oblivious to the tension in the room, they each gave Julia a quick kiss. Unfortunately, Chris coughed loudly to gain their attention, and they couldn’t help but notice him standing at the window with his stony expression.
“Is everything all right?” Amy asked into the silence, looking from one to the other.
“Julia is terminating our contract.” When he continued, his tone was clipped. “She thinks I’m insensitive that I won’t wait for her recovery to continue her work.”
Hilda gasped, eyes widening as she looked over at Julia. “Whatever are you doing that for?”
Julia gritted her teeth, but explained anyway. “It could take months for me to recover, Mama. I just don’t want anything to go wrong at the Augustine.”
“I will wait for however long it takes for you to recover.” Chris’ voice hit right to her heart. “I don’t want anyone else on this project.”
“Mama, do you mind?”
“We’ll come back later this afternoon.” Hilda rounded everyone up and disappeared out the door.
Julia waited for her family to depart before she continued. “You’re better off finding another designer. Randy is one in a million, but I can’t ask him to do what I do.”
His head bowed down. “You’re not breaking this contract. Randy’s doing a great job. By Design will continue as normal. Don’t be afraid of it. You’ve completed all the designs, Randy is capable of seeing it through. If absolutely necessary, we’ll consult.”
“Randy is great, I know that, but he hasn’t got the experience I have. What if something is delayed, contractors are not always the most reliable.”
“It doesn’t matter. Randy has assistance from your office. I don’t want you to stress about this. Just get better. The Augustine is being looked after.”
“I haven’t even looked at the Penthouse. I know you said you wanted to leave that one for last but I didn’t get close to organizing sketches.”
Chris had an answer for every issue she had. “I don’t want the Penthouse changed, not yet anyway.”
Julia was scrambling to find reasons to release him from the contract. “What about the two levels I was working on, I didn’t have them completed. What’s been done?”
“He’s already working on where you left off so no I’m not accepting this. But you’re right about one thing. You’re not allowed at the Augustine for work. Randy is more than capable of overseeing the contractors. If he needs your advice, he can call you.”
“You can’t be so stubborn. If I need to be there, I’ll be there. This is still my work.”
He headed for the door. “Well then, I guess our contract still stands. I’ll talk to you later. Oh and another thing, all this tension between us is making me crazy. I’m picking you up for dinner and the movies Friday night. That’s okay, isn’t it?”
Her mouth dropped open at his confidence that she would accept. What else could she do? After all, he was definitely right about the uncomfortable tension every time they touched or were in a room together. Some people were starting to notice they had feelings for each other.
“I’ll be ready at seven.”
The hundred-watt smile he flashed melted her heart before he shut the door.
Chapter Ten
The media had picked up on their close relationship, with date nights becoming regular between them. They were spotted out and about more often. All of Miami wanted to know about the Augustine Boy and his new woman. Julia hated the attention, especially when photographers took pictures of them together, but she soon learned to ignore it.
Chris was always affectionate. Even though she knew he sensed her hesitation, he never pushed her beyond what made her comfortable. Julia was not used to such intense emotional and physical need. She wanted him too much, which made her wary.
After several weeks of pleasant dates, a few kisses here and there, she wanted more. Her thoughts were a constant jumble of Chris, the Augustine, and getting on the walking bob. They found each other and all too quickly; their dates began to get pushed aside with their work becoming a priority. She had to tell him and soon.
Weeks passed and physiotherapy was only bringing on the most minor changes. She would gain the slightest amount of strength. The crutches were her savior in the end. That was the only way she could move around at a decent speed. Hobbling without the crutches made her too self-conscious.
On Thursday afternoon, she found out that the specially crafted light fixtures she had ordered from France hadn’t arrived. The incorrect light fixtures for level fifteen had been installed in three of the rooms. Nothing was going to stop her from dealing with this unfortunate mishap at the Augustine. Randy assured her he was dealing with it. Unbeknownst to Randy, Julia hopped in a cab and headed straight for the Augustine to check it out.
The concierge was surprised to see her there. “Ms Mendoza, how are you feeling? Is there a problem?”
She was heading straight for the elevator. “I’m just sorting out an issue.”
The concierge rushed out from behind the desk, blocking Julia’s way. “I can’t let you go through, Ms Mendoza, apologies in advance.”
“What? There’s a problem I’ve got to fix. Now get out of my way.”
She tried to move around him, but she couldn’t move as quickly as him. Assaulting the young man with her crutches would be the next option, but she didn’t think that would be very sporting. She wouldn’t know how to explain that to Chris when he found out.
“I have strict instructions by Mr. Augustine that you’re not allowed to be here for work unless you have an appointment.”
She muttered a Spanish obscenity beneath her breath. “Just let me pass. Isn’t he in New York? He doesn’t need to be pestered with such minor details. Here, I’ll give you fifty bucks if you just get out of my way.” She started to rummage through her bag for a fifty.
“Julia, how are you feeling?” Ben approached from behind the concierge. Her heart fluttered dangerously, hearing Ben’s voice had sounded so much like Chris’ for a second. “What are you doing here?”
“I’m well thanks, Ben.” He leaned down and kissed her cheek in greeting. “I’m just here to check on the light fixtures, but as you can see…” She indicated the concierge, hoping that Ben would pat the dutiful employee on the back and let her through.
“Randy was here already, he’s got everything sorted. Do you want a coffee?”
“I’d really like to head up and have a look if that’s okay.”
Ben laughed, patting her on the back instead. “Actually, I can’t let you do that. In fact,” he said and nodded in the direction behind her, “he won’t b
e happy if you’re here working while you’re still recovering. You’ll have to take it up with him.”
She turned, her mouth dropping as Chris was heading through the door at a fast pace for the spiral stairs. His phone rang and he flipped it open to answer. That’s when his eyes met hers and he halted.
“I’ll call you back.” He shut the phone and tucked it away in his back pocket. “Are you alright?”
She nodded when he came close to give her a kiss. He was distracted looking at Ben and the concierge so he didn’t notice. He finally asked the question she didn’t want to answer.
“What are you doing here?”
She had to open her mouth to speak. Her face began to heat up with embarrassment. “Just checking on something, there was a minor problem. Do you mind if I go up and have a look.”
His lips twitched. “You just can’t help yourself.”
She shrugged. “Just a little peek.”
“There are a lot of drop sheets, fixtures and tools up there, Jules. I don’t want you to hurt yourself. Come into my office, I’ll show you what they’ve sent.”
Ben and the concierge parted for her to follow Chris. He stopped and waited for her to catch up a few steps away, as he had walked off too fast.
His office looked the same since she last saw it. Chris shut the door, indicating for her to take a seat on the black leather couch. She settled herself down while he brought over the new light fixture. Julia was silently fuming. They had most definitely sent the wrong fixture, the cheaper version. She began to rummage through her bags, wanting to double check the order she placed.
“Randy’s already called the company, it was their mistake. They’re sending the right fixtures by express courier. It’s all sorted, like I said.” He took the fixture from her, their fingers brushing. Julia gasped at the electric shook that snapped between them.
The silence in the room thickened with sensual heat. Her chest heaved up and down as she tried to make sense of her feelings.
“I’ve missed you,” she whispered. “Sometimes, I can’t sleep because you’re always on my mind. I want to come back to work.”
Chris shook his head. “No, you’re not coming back, not until those crutches are gone. Us, on the other hand, is a completely different matter. I’ve missed you too. I’m going to clear some free nights for us.”
Julia pressed her hands together. “I want to go away with you, away from everything - just you and me. You once said you wanted to get to know me, now I’m asking to get to know you. I want to be with you. If you don’t want to go away, don’t say anything and I’ll leave.” Julia’s mouth went dry when his lips lifted into a brilliant smile.
“Are you kidding me?” He joined her on the couch and framed her cheeks in his hands, planting a soft kiss on her cheek. “I know the perfect getaway.”
***
Julia was testing dangerous waters, going away with him. There was an intense emotional and physical need between them. It was as if they had known each other forever. Going away together would give them a chance to be alone and learn more about each other. Julia had only ever been with one man, Carlos. Now she wanted to explore what it would feel like to be with Chris.
He had given her a few hints on what to pack, and now her small traveling bag was packed full of necessities. He was surprising her at every turn. A driver was to pick her up at half past one. It was already a quarter past and she was getting excited, looking forward to getting away from the city. Julia hadn’t had a break in a long time, but the need to be next to him was too great a temptation. She found herself daydreaming about Chris in a most sensual way. He had been nothing but attentive since she had opened up and Julia was becoming addicted to his kisses. Chris never missed a chance to show how much he liked her. He didn’t have to say much, it was all in his eyes.
Despite their different backgrounds, they had a lot of common interests. They both loved the beach, their families had mixed cultures, and they both strove for success in their careers. Although their businesses were in completely different leagues, they both worked hard to build and succeed in their own fields. Julia loved his drive and determination to keep climbing up. She found out he was never content with anything mediocre, in fact, for Chris, everything had to be the best of the best.
At exactly one-thirty, an Augustine driver showed up at her apartment. Julia looked down at the light blue and purple dress she had chosen. It was elegant and casual, especially worn with white sandals. She wore her hair pulled into a ponytail set off with a beautiful hibiscus flower. Looking at her reflection in the mirror behind her office door, she was pleased. Except for the crutches and brace on her leg, she looked good.
She’d hardly had time to get calm before the driver pulled up in front of the Augustine. Chris was waiting out in the front, talking on his cell phone as usual. But when he saw the car, he finished his conversation. He stopped the driver from getting out with a wave of his hand. Then he threw a large black tote bag into the trunk of the vehicle and climbed into the car.
He was wearing a pair of khaki shorts with a black and white polo shirt; she loved the way he dressed. The shirt fit snug against his broad shoulders. He looked good in whatever he wore. He shifted and settled into the seat, clicking in his seat belt. His attention was back on her.
“You look amazing.” Kissing her on the cheek, lowering his voice next to her ear.
Then he turned back toward her, giving her a wink. “You’ll love where we’re going.”
Twenty minutes later, Julia braced herself when they turned off and headed down a narrow road lined with palm trees. It led to a private airstrip. She had got a quick glance at the sign as they turned onto the road.
“Where are we going?” she murmured.
“It’s still a secret,” he whispered in a hushed voice.
She didn’t like dealing with surprises. “Please, Christophe, tell me.”
A small jet, Augustine written clear across the tail, was waiting on the runway, ready to take off. Several crewmembers were waiting patiently on the tarmac.
Chris helped get their luggage out of the car, handing it over to the crew. She stood staring at the jet in disbelief. When he came up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist, she welcomed the embrace.
“We’re going to the Virgin Islands. It’s not far. I’ve booked us a couple of cabins on one of the islands, very private and completely secluded. Is that all right? There shouldn’t be many tourists, it’s only March.”
Swallowing, she nodded. He had booked them each a private cabin. “This is… I can’t believe it.” She blinked in surprise. “So which island?”
“St. Thomas. Trust me, Julia, this place is my favorite place to stay at. The beaches are great. You want relaxation and privacy, that’s where you go.”
If he had read her indecision, he didn’t let her dwell on it. Taking her hand, he passed her crutches over to a crewmember and helped her climb up the metal steps of the jet. She stopped at the door and stared. She had been in first class before while traveling, but this topped it by a mile. His arm supported her around her waist as he guided her into the cabin. It was plush and immaculate with large black leather chairs.
He gave her a reassuring smile. Now, as the plane taxied, she felt her excitement grow.
Chris didn’t say much. He listened to her random comments and incessant chatter. She only stopped talking when he stood and opened a small cabinet. It turned out to be a mini-fridge, and he bent to pull out a bottle of pink champagne.
“I’m listening, sweetheart.” He poured a glass of the frothy pink champagne, adding a juicy strawberry onto the rim of her glass. “You’re just nervous. Keep talking.”
“I’m babbling, aren’t I?”
He handed over her glass. She took a sip.
“The weather is good so it’ll be smooth riding.” Chris settled back into his seat next to her.
She sipped the sweet cool champagne, feeling the relaxing effect take over. He popped open h
is beer and took a long drink. Then he took her free hand, rubbing her knuckles. She had a fair idea what he was thinking. From the way he was looking at her, his eyes sparkling with interest, she knew he was imagining what would happen when they landed.
To hide her blush, she glanced out the window. The sky was clear blue with a whisper of soft white clouds. “How long will it take to get there?”
“Not long.” He shrugged.
“Do you go away often?”
“Not really. I’m too busy. But now, with you, I can’t let that get in the way. We really have to do something about our schedules.” He added seriously, “I’m getting Ben and some of the board executives to take over my work load.”
Here they were, so close together, and she realized that she couldn’t have gotten any luckier than meeting Chris. She hadn’t been intimate with a man for so long. The way they kissed told her that intimacy would feel good with him. Her whole body burned for his touch. She wanted him if for no other reason than it felt really good.
Fortunately, the trip was short. She was grateful the time flew by. Chris was so good at distracting her. If anything, she had been more nervous about the flight than being alone with Chris. Now she had time to be with Chris, without distraction.
They weren’t completely compatible, she was learning. Chris was a risk-taker, where she was not. From just the way he moved and the way he spoke, she could tell that failure didn’t sit well with him. In fact, his powerful masculine grace and his confidence were qualities she admired in him. But even though he was so much more self-confident, he had the great ability of making her feel at ease with just a look or a touch.
She was usually reserved in her emotions, but he was tempting her to become more involved. She was caught now in the desire to share and experience new choices.
Julia jumped a little when the captain’s voice announced they would be touching down in ten minutes and to enjoy their stay. The captain skillfully maneuvered the plane towards the landing strip, but a rather bumpy landing had Chris’ hand dropping tantalizingly in the middle of her thigh. When he started to take his hand away, she stopped him, allowing the caress to continue. Each moment seemed to be etching itself into her fuzzy brain, ever since she asked him to come away with her.